Relapse Records hasre-released two landmark albums from California's crossover metal act Cryptic Slaughter, complete with live tracks, extra artwork and bonus demos. The real treat, though, is to actually hear the music and the impact it has had on our updated versions of hardcore and metal. When you understand that no one was doing this kind of thing back in 1985-1988, you realize how important a band like Cryptic Slaughter is, as they came up in the same ilk as Slayer, Suicidal Tendencies, and DRI. Even though songs like "Hypocrite" and "Lowlife" may sound contrite today, bands such as Cryptic truly paved the way for heavy music to evolve and thrive. If you're game for a little old school learning, these two re-releases are a good place to start.
www.relapse.com
- Mike SOS